State Assembly Candidate David Marstellar Endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin In Campaign Against Rep. Jessie Rodriguez, Who Voted Against Repealing 1849 Abortion Ban

David Marstellar, the Democratic candidate for Wisconsin Assembly District 21, has been endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wis consin. Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin says the organization “endorses candidates who support access to family planning services and believe a woman should be able to make her own health care decisions without political interference.” Marstellar says, “[h]ealthcare is better when options are expanded and decisions are made by patients, with their families and their doctors, not by politicians.”

Republican incumbent Jessie Rodriguez voted for AB 975, which would have set up a statewide referendum for a 14-week abortion ban. Rep. Rodriguez also supported the so-called “Time for Life” package of legislation, which aimed to reduce “instances of induced abortions in Wisconsin.” In a press release announcing her support for the package of bills, Rodriguez said “it’s an honor to take a stand for life and protect the unborn by advancing this legislative package today.”

Rodriguez stated on a candidate questionnaire her support for a total abortion ban, and also voted against an amendment that would have repealed the state’s 1849 abortion ban. The law banned abortions at conception with no no exceptions for rape or incest. While a lower court judge decided that the law did not apply to abortions, anti-abortion groups are still fighting to uphold the ban. 

Updated September 26, 2024.